The City Information Office (CIO) has unveiled the winners of the 2025 Hulagway sa Araw ng Dabaw photo contest, which ran from March 1–16, 2025, with the theme “88 Years Strong: One Davao.” The contest featured four categories: Pag-abli sa Araw, Kalingawan sa Araw, Talento sa Araw, and Kaanyag sa Araw.
Out of the 177 entries, Dexter Arcenas’ photograph titled “Awit sa Kahayag” clinched the top spot, followed by Jerome Batain’s “Smiles in Motion” and Henry Doctolero Jr.’s “Unity in Rhythm”. Arcenas’ winning photo showcased the City Hall of Davao as the backdrop of a chorale group performing during the Kundiman at Harana sa Araw ng Dabaw event. The grand facade of City Hall, lit up with vibrant colors, complemented the performance, with the banners reading 88 Years Strong: One Davao, symbolizing the city’s unity and resilience.
Judges’ Praise for Arcenas’ Photo
Val Adonis San Diego, one of the judges, praised Arcenas’ photo for capturing a unique perspective of the City Hall that is rarely seen. He noted how Arcenas effectively used the composition, such as including bilao (woven baskets) at the bottom of the frame, enhancing the photo’s overall impact. Joselaine Dacara-Ledesma, another judge, highlighted the cohesiveness of the photo, particularly the lighting, which conveyed the ambiance of the event seamlessly.
The Power of Emotion in Batain’s “Smiles in Motion”
Jerome Batain’s photograph “Smiles in Motion” also received recognition for capturing an emotionally charged moment during the Parada, reflecting joy and festivity amidst challenges. Excelso Hiponia Jr., a Hall of Famer in the contest and one of the judges, remarked that Batain’s ability to seize the perfect moment made the photo stand out. Ledesma described it as an “emotion in motion,” noting that unlike still images, emotions in action photos like Batain’s can shift in a split second, making it all the more impactful.
Category Winners and Special Awards
The category winners include:
- Dexter Arcenas for “Uswag Dabaw” and “Sayaw sa Kalipay”
- Henry Doctolero Jr. for “Lingaw Sayaw”
- Shem Longakit for “Pagsaulog”
- Jerome Batain for “Gandabawenyas”
- Dexter Acebuche for “We Are Watching You”
- Mark Orillosa for “Video Snap” and “Hugyaw Sayaw”
- Rustan Samson for “Tingkad Ganda” and “Tindig at Tikas”, the latter also receiving a Special Award.
A Celebration of Davao’s Glorious Moments
The event also honored the Hall of Famers of Hulagway sa Araw ng Dabaw: Ian Russel Requiso and Excelso Hiponia Jr., whose photographic works have beautifully captured the essence of Davao City over the years.
The Hulagway sa Araw ng Dabaw contest continues to be an essential celebration of the city’s heritage, culture, and spirit, giving photographers the opportunity to showcase the vibrant life of Davao and the people who make it so special.
